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Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells for Cozy Dinner Nights

Experience the comforting flavors of Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells, a perfect vegetarian dish for cozy dinner nights.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Shells
  • 12 pieces Jumbo Pasta Shells Cook al dente.
For the Filling
  • 15 oz Ricotta Cheese Drain if watery.
  • 10 oz Thawed Frozen Spinach Squeeze out excess moisture.
  • 1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Pecorino Romano can be used.
  • 1 large Egg Acts as a binder.
For the Topping
  • 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Consider using provolone or fontina.
For Seasoning and Sauce
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1 tsp Black Pepper
  • 24 oz Marinara Sauce Opt for homemade or high-quality store-bought.
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil Used for sautéing.
  • 2 cloves Minced Garlic
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Fresh Basil Dried can be substituted.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • medium skillet
  • Baking dish
  • Mixing Bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Gather your ingredients and prep your workspace.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the jumbo pasta shells until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water.
  3. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté minced garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
  4. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, squeezed spinach, grated Parmesan, egg, salt, pepper, sautéed garlic, and basil. Mix until smooth.
  5. Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce in a 9x13-inch baking dish. Stuff each shell with about 2 tablespoons of filling and place them open side up.
  6. Pour remaining marinara sauce over the shells and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
  7. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is golden.
  8. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. Spoon extra sauce over each serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 20gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Cook pasta al dente. Squeeze out moisture from spinach. Prepare in advance for best flavor. Use quality marinara sauce. Experiment with different cheeses.

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